Antane
· 17 September 2006
· Chapter 5: Parting Gifts
I don't think I ever read this one - so much fic, so little time! - but I love the end: And as the light of Eärendil fell on the sleeping form of the Ringbearer through the open entrance to the pavilion, that sliver of Light Galadriel had foreseen slipped gently into place, blessing him and preparing him to win through past the ordeal in the orc tower. Lord and Lady looked down on him with compassion and love, and gently they gifted him to Ulmo for his relief when the time came.
Aragorn, sitting vigil to one side of the pavilion’s entrance, saw the light fall on the one he already considered his small brother, and smiled through the tears of pity for him that threatened to spill over. “Oh, Frodo, It calls me to ease you of Its burden, and I know that now I cannot. Please forgive me for not doing so.”
So seemingly frail a being with such a terrible burden, but so beautiful and strong and full of Light!
Namarie, God bless, Antane :)
Author's reply
This one was another that sat with me for some weeks before I actually wrote it, and had to be started twice before it began to open up.
It's one where Frodo isn't the main character, yet is still the focus of much of it in spite of being seen only from a distance, talking with others and sleeping.
And so Galadriel has passed not only the obvious test, but the more hidden one as well, and the Phial has been properly prepared and blessed for its intended role, and Frodo will now be able to pass through the orc tower alive, because first he and then Sam will be able to bear that light into the darkness and bring out what needs to be brought out as whole as it can.
One person didn't like that Aragorn's thoughts appeared here, but I found he insisted on being heard at the end, for he, too, was being tested there in Lothlorien.
Antane
· 17 September 2006
· Chapter 17: A Lúthien Within the Shire
So nice to see him smiling and dancing! I'm sure Pippin dreamed true.
Namarie, God bless, Antane :)
Author's reply
If only in Pippin's and Tribbal's dreams as yet, Frodo is beginning to find his joy again. And I'm certain they both dreamed true that night.
Thanks so much, and God bless you, too, Antane.
shirebound
· 17 September 2006
· Chapter 17: A Lúthien Within the Shire
Both Pippin and Tribbals are such gentle yet strong souls. How lovely that this sweet music and dance brought them together.
Then, at last, he rolled himself into his blankets and placed the whistle under his flattened pillow, and gave himself to dreams of Frodo dancing on white shores in sight of a sparking sea, that smile Pippin had loved so lighting his features ... a dream he unwittingly shared with a child lying nearby on her mattress filled with fresh meadow grass.
Lovely.
Author's reply
Yes, two very strong souls united in a moment of gentle beauty. Am so very glad you appreciated it.
Found Tribbals at my door, insisting this be written--another tribute to the girl I saw dancing to "Chavala" so long ago.
cookiefleck
· 17 September 2006
· Chapter 16: Whining
This review is for this story and the previous one... I don't think I will ever tire of reading your post-Quest stories in which the members of the Fellowship are portrayed with such respect. I love how you often find a way to "educate" the uninformed populace about their worthy deeds. Thank you!
Author's reply
Thank you, Cookiefleck. I think that most outsiders would have a remarkable level of respect for the four Hobbits, particularly once they were convinced as Margil was that there are such individuals as Hobbits in this world. For the Hobbits of the Shire, however, there would be more question, I think, as they were having to realize that all four of the Travellers had changed profoundly during the course of their absence.
Frodo, Sam, and Merry were fully adult, and Pippin nearly so. They'd seem childlike, but I doubt they indulged in pure childishness; and the wonder of it must have inspired a great number of outsiders to respect them deeply.
cookiefleck
· 17 September 2006
· Chapter 14: Requesting Mercy
This was very moving. What a terrible dilemma for all of them to have to (potentially) face. My favorite line was this: "As he saw Sam’s shoulders begin to shake with silent sobs, the Man knew for certain, remembering to the patrol with Avramir, and how Avramir had made a request of him."
And, later, when they travelled to Mordor, wouldn't the eventual possibility of having to kill Frodo in order to destroy the Ring have to have been in the very back of Sam's mind? Perhaps the hardest burden of all to bear, even greater than Frodo's.
Author's reply
I fear you're all too right, Cookiefleck. Who knows what all thoughts were going through Sam's mind then, and then to realize that he could do nothing, no more than Elrond had been able to take the Ring from Isildur three thousand years ago?
I was just watching "The Green Mile" again the other night, listening to John Coffey grieving that love was being used all over the world to bring folks to their destruction; and this story so fits that sentiment.
Thanks so much for the feedback.
Anonymous
· 17 September 2006
· Chapter 16: Whining
Tedicus Dexius Eclectus proclaims:
Garn! but that Ted does make for an interesting story don't he?
What a great deal of faith he displays in his cherished belief of
his own victimhood. No amount of reasoning or rational discourse
can penetrate the barricade of certitude that his is the fate of
the oppressed and dispossessed. It's interesting that such a show
of perfect devotion to a beloved belief would be held up as a
paragon of the greatest virtue by many, had it only been focused
anywhere but on himself. This fundamentalist mindset, unfortunately
makes his chosen profession as a con artist a difficult one. When
scouting for a good "mark" he is more likely to become offended by
challenges to his victim status than obtaining the sympathetic ear
and charitable contributions he feels so entitled to. Poor Ted
can't see and never could admit that his biggest mark is indeed himself.
Frodo is a good target for being an agent of repression in Ted's
worldview. While Frodo was in essence a juvenile, organized crime boss;
in adulthood he is now forgiven and the incidents are viewed as
youthful indiscretions. Ted wears the moniker of thief still. Of
course his aquisitions of purloined property has continued unabated
into adulthood but that is easily rationalized away in his own mind.
Both Frodo and Bilbo had the good fortune of great inheritances, and
a financially secure life; Ted only got a thriving, small bussiness
that he would have to run and be at least competent at to be secure
in his future. Frodo and Bilbo both were personable individuals that
interacted socially quite well; but had some interesting skeletons in
their closets, around which many a wild tale might be speculated upon.
The fact that neither of them is no longer available to defend themselves
against accusations makes it that much the better to spin Ted's
revisionist history.
Ted's desire for respect is couched in the same form of epithet:
"I'll show them!" or "They will be sorry they messed with me!".
This grade school mentality is something most people mature out of
but aparrantly there are exceptions. Ted invokes in my mind the
phrase uttered by the repressed throughout time: "You just wait until
after the Revolution, then everyone will get what they deserve!".
When Lotho began his own revolution it was natural that all the ones
who felt slighted under the old regime would want a piece of the action
in the new order. Ted was being honest at least when he claimed that the
return of the travelers ended his hopes and dreams of a world that would
be forced to respect him.
Ted Sandyman sure isn't the sort anyone sane would want in a position
of power over others. But you have to admit that he is an intriguing
character with some unique qualities. He may be tagged a liar, theif
and a lush but at least he ain't related to no Baggginses!
Thanks for the story Larner, it's good to be reminded that there's
a little piece of Ted Sandyman in each of us. Sometimes we all indulge
in a little self pity and a heart felt "Why Me?". Just don't let it
become a way of life or you may end up as a whino.
Author's reply
Yes, there's a bit of Ted in us all, and even in Frodo and even moreso in Bilbo. But at the same time, Frodo was forgiven much because he recognized he must stop or hold ever the title of "Thief," while Ted wouldn't have stopped unless forced, and even then refused to acknowledge that he WAS a thief.
And you are certainly right that his biggest mark is himself. Poor Ted, unwilling to change, unwilling to accept second place without ever having done anything of worth to even approach first place.
Am so glad you appear to have appreciated this, Tedicus. And thanks so much for the detailed response. I'm honored as ever.
Armariel
· 16 September 2006
· Chapter 16: Whining
Eek, that Ted is a mess, wot? And always will be. Well, these stories seem to be coming thick and fast now, hmm?:D
Really nice to see Gimli & co. there again.
~~~{~@
Author's reply
Yes, Ted has a lot of growing up to do, which he doesn't appear likely to accomplish as he refuses to believe it's true for him. And I had to slip Gimli into at least a few of my stories, I think.
And I don't know why the plotbunnies are gnawing at me faster than the nuzgul in the jewelry box. I think he's fallen in love with the alexanderite in my Jerusalem Cross, myself. Heh!
Antane
· 16 September 2006
· Chapter 16: Whining
I think you should change your little note that these moments in time don't happen very often because they obviously are! :) Another great tale extolling Frodo's virtues. Thank you!
Namarie, God bless, Antane :)
Author's reply
Lately the short stories are bursting out, leaving me with wizards and early Hobbits running wild throughout the acreage. How can I explain it?
Anyway, am glad you appreciated this one.
Baggins Babe
· 16 September 2006
· Chapter 16: Whining
Dearie, dearie me! Ted Sandyman never comes out well in anyone's universe, does he? A small, mean-spirited, deeply unpleasant and self-pitying individual.
Not sure if you saw the latest chapter of 'Old Scores' which I posted last week, in which Sandyman's fate was decided?
I really enjoyed this story and was thankful that neither the Dwarves nor the hobbits were taken in - especially with Gimli there and Sam arriving. Unfortunately no amount of explaining will change Ted because he won't allow himself to see it. There's no helping some people, is there.
Love the story.
Author's reply
No, I have to finish Old Scores--once again had some difficulties with a virus or something like. I SO hate hackers. Will try to finish that up today or tomorrow.
And Ted does need to grow up, although it's unlikely he will in this lifetime, if ever.
And you're certainly right about Ted not wanting to see himself as he was.
So glad you appreciated it.
Lúmë
· 16 September 2006
· Chapter 16: Whining
Nicely done! Ted Sandyman's one of those I always felt had to be dealt with, somehow. I'm glad no-one takes his whining seriously. In South Africa we have a saying in Afrikaans: "Daar is geen salf te smeer aan hom nie." which translates to "There's no ointment to rub on him." Basically it means that whatever you do, you won't be able to change some people's behaviour or personality. It seems to apply to Ted :-)
Author's reply
Oh, such a lovely and appropriate saying! Thanks so much! And you are so right that it applies fully to Ted Sandyman.
Thanks so much for the response to this story.
harrowcat
· 16 September 2006
· Chapter 16: Whining
Wonderful Larner. I think that you need to change the note at the beginning of these shorter tales as they seem to be happening more and more frequently!
I loved the way that the dwarves, (and what an august company when we finally learn their names,) put up with Sandyman in order to hear such an unbelievable tale of woe. I like the way that they draw the rest of the hobbits in to comment on the tale and thereby add to the general understanding of Frodo, the Travellers and what happened outside the Shire.
It was a joy to hear Gimli's name of course and, especially, that his Father was there too. Gimli's facility with Hobbit genealogy was fun. I was surprised that the hobbits were so little surprised.
But poor Ted. It seems the only positive feature about him is his defence of his own Father.
Just been a good hobbit and bought my parents a deep fat fryer for their wedding anniversary! Not very healthy I know but I am looking forward to sampling the results! Getting my Dad interested in the Mobile homes and hoping....he takes a hint!
Author's reply
The plotbunnies are attacking faster than I can deal with them lately, and like true rabbits are breeding rapidly. And they're keeping the nuzguls somewhat at bay, I fear.
I place this during the return of Gimli to Minas Tirith with his first recruits to work on the repairs for Aragorn; and as I have Dorlin and Gloin both integral in the fabrication of the new gates, I had to have the two of them in the company, at least. Perhaps if the Hobbits hadn't been so focused on Ted they'd have remarked more on Gimli's knowledge of Hobbit genealogy; but once they realized he was one of the companions of the four Travellers, I suspect they'd be more suprised if he DIDN'T display some level of appreciation for Hobbit genealogy.
A deep fat fryer, eh? Was considering getting a new one for here, now that I have my daughter and her family with me. But for myself I try to stay away from a lot of fatty foods as it does a number on my stomach.
Hope your dad considers the motorhome. We loved all of ours, and I miss the ability to go visit and take my own bedroom with me.
Kitty
· 16 September 2006
· Chapter 16: Whining
Ah, Larner, that was somehow very satisfying. First I nearly couldn't believe what Ted was saying and was worried how much he would lie to the dwarves, but as I realised Gimli was among them I could relaxed sit back in my chair and enjoy it. And I enjoyed it thoroughly how much all the other hobbits always contradicted Ted!
Honestly, this guy is impossible, the way he is convincing himself (and trying to convince others) that everything of his self-made misery is Frodo's fault. All of his arguments are so laughable, the more so as he is contradicting himself more than once. Well, at least the dwarves got the right impression of Ted's whining, didn't they? No wonder the innkeeper feared for his custom as soon as Ted showed up; it must be disgusting to have to hear this sort of talk again and again. They should banish him from the inns completely, but I suppose that isn't easy, either. It's about time the Shire gets rid of this self-pitying idiot, if you ask me.
Anyway, I was glad there were so many hobbits to correct everything Ted said, and *that* was truly satisfying! It served Ted *so* right after all the nonsense he said.
Author's reply
And in contradicting Ted, they are coming to the appreciation of what Frodo truly meant to the Shire. Perhaps most wouldn't bother thinking too much on that once Frodo was gone; but a few more thoughtful individuals must have begun putting at least some of the pieces together and realizing that Frodo had made a unique impact not only on their own lives but on those of all around them. It's the American Christmas classic film "It's a Wonderful Life" set in the Shire I assume, except it isn't Frodo here realizing how important he was to the fulfillment of the Shire so much as everyone else.
And thank you so much for your response!
Dreamflower
· 15 September 2006
· Chapter 16: Whining
Ah, Sandyman! He never learns, does he? No matter *who* tells his story, he remains a bitter and hateful creature, who blames all the troubles of his life on someone else! A bully, a collaborator and a lout--and in this tale he is brought face to face with his shortcomings--and is *still* too stupid and blinkered to recognize a few home truths when he hears them.
I really liked the ending, as you showed him *still* up to his own tricks and still mired in his own self-pity.
Author's reply
Yes, bitter due to his own small spirit and unwillingness to see his own shortcomings and then try to get beyond them.
And I don't think he'd ever change.
Of course, your ending for him is poetic justice. Few deserved it better than Ted Sandyman.
Queen Galadriel
· 15 September 2006
· Chapter 16: Whining
Ted is hopeless. What miserable excuses for himself he makes, and when he receives good advice, he flings it to the ground and tramples on it. Pathetic. Absolutely pathetic. *sigh* But he's obviously one of those who, when people try to help him out of good will and mercy, won't lift a hand to accept it. It's really sad to see that in anyone. I wonder if Ted *could* have cleaned up his act and been redeemed in the end?
And as always I love bits like these:
It was Sam who answered him. "You think as Mr. Frodo was afraid of dyin’, do you? You obviously wasn’t by him on the mountainside, when both of us
thought we was but a few breaths from death. No, Frodo’ll die there where he’s gone when it’s time for it, although hopefully that won’t come as soon there
as it would’ve done here. Anyone as thinks Frodo Baggins was afraid of death never knew him at all--he was ready to die several times over, you know. No,
he was one to face his fears, Frodo was. He didn’t leave ’cause he was afraid of dyin’, but because he’d become afraid of livin’ as life had become for
him. He went so as he could learn again how to love life, embrace it and rejoice in it, afore he faces death the last time."
The smaller Dwarf at last turned his attention back to Ted Sandyman. "Perhaps Frodo’s coming here to Hobbiton did somehow ruin your life; but if
so, it was only because the contrast of his nature compared with your own showed just how shallow yours was, yours and this Lotho’s. I find I pity you,
much as Frodo must have pitied you before me."
Very well said.
God bless,
Galadriel
Author's reply
They are beginning to appreciate in Hobbiton just how much Frodo did for everyone, and trying to make Ted face the fact he's done nothing but delude himself for years.
But the likes of Ted Sandyman hate being pitied almost more than anything else, for to be pitied, as they see it, is recognition for just how little there is of worth in them--and largely because they refuse to let anything of worth inside them.
shirebound
· 15 September 2006
· Chapter 16: Whining
"He didn’t leave ’cause he was afraid of dyin’, but because he’d become afraid of livin’ as life had become for him. He went so as he could learn again how to love life, embrace it and rejoice in it"
This is a fascinating exchange. I really like seeing how Dwarves everywhere know and esteem Frodo, and even the hobbits are coming to realize his worth. And "your life was better because he lived here" is a marvelous way to look at the value of anyone's contribution, most of all Frodo's.
Author's reply
I imagine this took place as Gimli was leading the first of his party to Minas Tirith to begin working on the repairs to the King's City. The Hobbits of Hobbiton and Bywater may not understand why Frodo left, but they certainly know how Frodo Baggins acted around them compared to Lotho and the Sandymans, and they'll defend his name before these folk who appear to know and honor him; and they learn a bit more of why Frodo did as he did along the way
The real measure of a life is how many lives are touched for the better as that life is lived.
Lindelea
· 15 September 2006
· Chapter 16: Whining
Oh, my friend, this is wonderfully done!
I love the descriptions (especially of the dwarves in the beginning), and what a joy to hear Gimli's name spoken!
The genealogical information was so naturally woven into the story, I felt right at home in that room full of hobbits.
I do feel a little sorry for Ted, stoutly defending his father.
And Sam, moving Ted into a decent house. Sam's a real gentlehobbit, no matter how high or low his antecedents. (hope that's the right word, I'm absolutely exhausted. been a long week. *hug* bet you're tired too, though, and hope you're keeping well)
The difference between "respect" and the sort of caution one would use around an unpredictable dog was well explained.
And I am interrupted, but hope to get back to read the rest of the story sometime in the next few days.
Author's reply
I like to involve everyone in my stories, obviously; and I suspect Gimli and those heading toward Minas Tirith would be willing to discuss Frodo with those who knew him, and would feel willing to pull Ted's arguments to pieces, with the locals who are in the tavern finding themselves drawn into the discussion and pointing out the inaccuracies. And if it helps all see Frodo a bit better, so much the better for all.
Life is stressful this evening, but that's life.
Grey Wonderer
· 15 September 2006
· Chapter 16: Whining
I loved this and Sam was, as always simply wonderful! I just love it when you write one of this series. I also love the title of this one.
Author's reply
Sam is always wonderful, isn't he? So glad you appreciated it, and I think this was basically what Ted reduced himself to, a whine in the night. Thanks for the feedback.
Antane
· 14 September 2006
· Chapter 15: Unbelief
I’ve collected younger brothers, mostly among my cousins, but one from the gardens at Bag End.
Sweet! I think it would have to be a tie between Frodo and Sam about who the best hobbit ever produced though - but we are talking about one person still.
Namarie, God bless, Antane :)
Author's reply
Am so very glad you appreciate it, Antane! And I, too, have seen Frodo and Sam at times as two halves to a single whole. Thanks so much for your feedback.
AspenJules
· 13 September 2006
· Chapter 3: Gifts and the Benefits of Scholarship
Oh, those mischievous dwarves!!!
That's really quite wicked, but worth it to hear Frodo laugh.
So Aragorn really doesn't know what he was saying? Too funny!!! I wonder what the other things were, since apparently he did go on for awhile!
Thanks for the laugh - especially after making me cry the way you did (in Stricken from the Book).
Author's reply
To fully appreciate this story, you need to read Bodkin's stories that sparked it in her Reflections series and in her story about all who heard Elladan and Elrohir going on for years and had quiet snickers at their expense behind their backs.
And I suspect that Aragorn learned a few what all had thought to be choice Dwarvish phrases, only to have it all come out now; and Frodo deserved a wonderful memory he could hug to himself about the other things he'd heard his friend say.
And am so very glad this one was a good contrast to the last one. Glad you enjoyed it.
AspenJules
· 13 September 2006
· Chapter 2: Stricken from the Book
Oh Larner... why do you make me cry so often?!?
I'd read elsewhere, I suppose in one of your other stories, about Frodo striking himself from the Book of Baggins, but this is the first time I've actually read this. How very very sad that he felt it necessary, but I'm glad I know he healed (from reading Reunion), and was able to accept being reinstated.
A very good story, even *if* it made my eyes leak and my nose run... LOL.
Author's reply
Frodo having stricken himself from the Book of Baggins was mentioned in "Reunion," and that bit was written in, of course, in reference to this story.
This was one of the sad ones that hit me one night, and so I found myself writing it in response to the promptings of the miniature nuzgul I found hiding behind the statue of Isildur on the shelf on which I keep my main Tolkien collection.
Andrea
· 13 September 2006
· Chapter 15: Unbelief
"Cares-for-Naught Frodo" - that hurts! I'm only glad that Destro keeps his thoughts to himself, for now. I fear Destro is a "representative" of lots of hobbits who share his opinion? But they have no idea, they don't *know*. And the tragedy is they don't care to know!
Do you know that saying about the prophet who is not respected in his own country? That's it, exactly.
Margil, however, changed his opinion about hobbits the first time he actually saw them. And he was greatly impressed by Frodo's charisma. What a beautiful fabric design he created! Frodo would have loved it! And he would have been proud of Margil.
Author's reply
I suspect you're right about how Destro's opinions reflect those of many Hobbits within the Shire. And you're right--they don't know! And that very verse was running through my mind as I wrote this.
And am so very glad you appreciate the fabric Margil brought. Yes, I think Frodo would have been very proud to see what this young man came to, in part inspired by Frodo himself.
Thanks for the feedback.
Fiondil
· 13 September 2006
· Chapter 15: Unbelief
"And suddenly the Man was kneeling, being embraced by the three of them, the bolt of fabric between them--one with white gardenia blossoms woven against a silken fabric of peacock blue."
I almost cried and the fact that Destro Chubbs had such disregard and contempt for Frodo made Margil's grief only more poignant. The bolt of fabric with the gardenias against the peacock blue background was a lovely touch. It's so sad to think that Margil had designed that pattern with Frodo in mind, never knowing that Frodo would not be there to appreciate it. I can imagine the sense of anticipation Margil must have felt the closer he came to the Shire and how devastated he must have been to know that Frodo was no longer there. Hopefully Pippin, Merry and Sam will be able to ease some of his grief.
I really liked this story, Larner, as I've enjoyed all your stories, short or long. Keep them coming.
Author's reply
Whether Margil designed the pattern or just found it and it brought to mind Frodo we'll probably never know; but am so glad it was so appreciated.
Destro has probably turned his own grief and lack of understanding over Frodo's apparent second abandonment of the Shire into anger, as anger is easier for many to deal with than hurt. And am so glad the simple appearance of Margil fulfilling his childhood ambition of bringing fabrics to the Shire has started such imaginings in you, although I suspect you're right.
And am so grateful you enjoyed my stories so.
Bodkin
· 13 September 2006
· Chapter 15: Unbelief
Frodo - more appreciated among strangers than by those among whom he grew up! Margil was certainly won over by the hobbits and I imagine they'll be glad to see him and talk over old times.
Author's reply
Frodo couldn't hide what he'd done from the citizens of Gondor; but he certainly did nothing to let most in his own land know what he'd accomplished--and I suspect he was just as glad most didn't know, even. But it's sad to think that his accomplishments were least appreciated by his own folk, although many were probably hurt when he left the second time with no warning.
And am so glad you appreciate Margil's reunion with those whom he met in Minas Tirith. Thank you!
Baggins Babe
· 12 September 2006
· Chapter 15: Unbelief
I found this story deeply moving, Larner. The image of Frodo between the peacock and the gardenia is so beautiful, and the idea that the same image occurs on the silk years later is wonderful.
How touching that Margil, who begins by not believing in hobbits, later visits the Northern Lands and is stricken at the news of Frodo's departure.
Loved Pippin and his scheme, and Frodo's tetchiness at having to dress up, and lovely to catch up with the peacocks again.
Author's reply
Oh, am so glad you appreciate it all, BB. I, too, think that Margil's appreciation for what he sees of Frodo, tying it to shining thing and clear beauty, is wonderful. And I think many who met Frodo briefly during his time in the southlands would grieve at learning he'd left Middle Earth.
And am so glad the reappearance of the peacocks has been so well received, as well as Pippin's gentle machinations. Poor Frodo--having to accept that others think he's very special.
Elemmírë
· 11 September 2006
· Chapter 15: Unbelief
I really enjoyed this piece, Larner. I especially liked how it sort of came full circle. At first Margil doesn't believe in the existence of the hobbits and their great deeds; he then is shown different, only at the end to see that Frodo's deeds are disregarded in his own lands. Very well done.
I still think those peacocks are such a cool addition to Minas Tirith and once again you've written a marvelous tale involving them. I love the hobbits fascination and appreciation of those beautiful and magnificent birds.
And that image of Frodo’s face between the beauty of the peacock and that of the gardenia flower was one that would stay with him forever....
And suddenly the Man was kneeling, being embraced by the three of them, the bolt of fabric between them--one with white gardenia blossoms woven against a silken fabric of peacock blue.
I'm glad Pippin got the idea to have the hobbits (especially Frodo) dress in their finest for the trade talks. It was definitely an importance for the various Big Folk to see them arrayed as such ... most especially those with the opinion like Margil.
I also really enjoyed the concept of getting all the races together to discuss the reopening of trade routes, etc and also how Aragorn made it a point to formally declare what each region of Middle-earth was known for and best produced. One of the many markings of a fine leader indeed.
So, does Pippin ever tell Frodo about that secret hideaway under the yew tree?
Author's reply
The question of the hideaway beneath the yew did get sort of ignored, but I suspect Pippin did tell Frodo.
That you appreciate how Frodo's accomplishments have come to be admired outside the Shire while they are disregarded within it is gratifying. And am so glad you enjoyed seeing the peacocks again.
That the world has changed, and now trade is possible with distant lands I feel would be something Aragorn would want to reinforce, and as I've written him in "Lesser Rings" as having used the role of a merchant to hide his survey of Harad I felt he would wish to let it be known by all just how important he feels the activity to be. He now has the chance to display he's personally aware of what representatives of the different peoples produce, indicating they'd best not underestimate him as well as his interest in seeing all benefit from the new ability to trade freely and appreciate what one another is capable of.
And am so glad you appreciated the image that inspired Margil. Thanks for the feedback.